Bengaluru to mandate dog breeding licenses

GBA to mandate dog breeding licenses, ban ferocious breeds, enforce microchips, vaccines, sterilization, and a three‑dog limit

The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) is preparing to introduce a comprehensive set of regulations governing pet dog ownership and breeding in the city. Officials say the move is aimed at ensuring responsible ownership and curbing unregulated breeding practices, given the city’s growing pet population of over 1.15 lakh dogs.

Under the new framework, dog breeders must obtain a license from GBA, with annual renewal fees determined by the breed category. Licenses will only be issued after confirmation from a designated veterinary officer, and breeding of ferocious dog breeds will be prohibited. GBA has already built shelters for stray dogs and taken responsibility for their breeding, signalling a shift toward more structured animal welfare management.

Pet owners will also face stricter obligations. Every dog must be microchipped at the owner’s expense, vaccinated against rabies, and certified by a registered veterinarian. Dogs over 12 months of age must be sterilized, and enclosures kept clean to avoid nuisance to neighbours. No household will be permitted to keep more than three dogs; excess animals will be seized and sent to the municipal animal control center.

Also Read: Canada school shooting leaves 10 dead, 25 injured

Daily care rules are equally detailed. Dogs must be leashed during walks, and owners are required to clean up after them in public spaces. If a dog escapes and is impounded, fines will apply: ₹1,000 if released within 72 hours, and ₹200 per day thereafter. Unclaimed dogs will be handed over to animal welfare organizations. Aggressive breeds will remain prohibited in apartment complexes.

By tightening breeding norms and enforcing responsible ownership, GBA hopes to create a safer and more harmonious environment for both residents and pets. The initiative underscores Bengaluru’s attempt to balance compassion for animals with public order.

Rising Dog Bite Cases in Bengaluru

Separately, the city has witnessed a worrying surge in dog bite incidents. Bengaluru accounts for nearly 70% of such cases across Karnataka. Reported attacks stood at 21,163 in 2023, dipped slightly to 18,198 in 2024, but spiked to 24,492 in 2025—marking a 16% increase compared to 2023.

Also Read: Actress Sreeleela graduates as Doctor while shining in cinema